Hawaii is often referred to as a “living laboratory” due to its diverse ecosystems and unique biodiversity. This makes it an ideal destination for biology students looking to deepen their understanding of ecological relationships and discuss Christian stewardship of the environment, while staying within some of the most beautiful, yet most vulnerable, parts of creation.
TWU travel studies
This past summer, a group of TWU biology students ventured into the heart of Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes. This immersive travel study offered students the chance to explore the island's rich ecosystems firsthand, blending rigorous academic study with hands-on fieldwork on location in Hawaii.
Students began their studies on campus at TWU, to prepare themselves with introductory knowledge necessary for their trip. They then embarked on a month-long excursion to the Captain Cook area, south of Kona, where they studied coral reef biology and tropical plants.
"I will always remember fondly the late night games, swimming right outside our house, watching dolphins while studying, and enjoying every night's sunset..."
Applied learning
“Being immersed in what we were being taught was extremely beneficial to my learning and overall experience, as it made lectures and studying so applicable,” Carly Dyck says in capturing the benefits of the TWU travel study.
"We were immediately able to see different ecosystem relationships, and physical distinctions between species," Carly continues. "Because of the field portion of these classes, it sometimes did not even feel like I was in school. It was so interesting and fun to identify whatever we were able to as we were snorkelling or hiking."
Experiential learning meets island adventure
Based at the waterfront of the Kealakekua Bay Marine Life Conservation District, students engaged first-hand with the spectacular and precious underwater habitats of the Hawaiian archipelago. Their studies were taught or guided by Karen Steensma, professor of Biology and co-chair of the Geography & Environment Department, David Clements, professor of Biology and Environmental Studies, along with instructors Anna Ogden and Darcy Kehler.
This year's trip was particularly special, as it was Professor Steensma's last time teaching this travel study before retiring from teaching in university. A wildlife researcher, marine biologist, and a life-long dairy farmer, Professor Steensma has led TWU's travel study to Hawaii for 35 years.
Studying near wildlife
Beyond the marine conservation areas, students ventured into other parts of the island, including beaches, mountains, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, observing the unique flora and fauna of the island.
What's most memorable are the relationships fostered and the breathtaking natural scenes.
"I will always remember fondly the late night games, swimming right outside our house, watching dolphins while studying, and enjoying every nights sunset," Carly adds. "I am so, so grateful for the experience I had on the Hawaii Travel Study and all the relationships I built."
Research within Hawaii's natural laboratories
Working in teams, students had the opportunity to develop and carry out research projects. “Coming up with research project ideas together and then collecting our data was also a bonding experience,” Maia Olson shares.
"...We were blessed to have a group that bonded so well and felt like Ohana (family) from the moment we landed in Hawaii.”
Personal, social, and academic growth
The Hawaii travel study was about more than just academic enrichment; it was also an opportunity for personal growth and community building. Maia recalls highlights from the trip that included driving across the island, "where we would listen to music, talk, and learn about each others' lives, which brought us closer together, and studying for the exams together!"
Other favourite moments included hiking and snorkelling, which Maia describes as, "things that we as a class got to experience, not only to enhance our learning and appreciate creation, but we get to experience it together."
"From hiking at great altitudes to diving deep while snorkelling, and even dancing outside under the stars, every day in Hawaii was a new adventure!"
Visited by geckos
Adina Cazacu reflects on the friendships that were forged during the group's time together. “I think that...we were blessed to have a group that bonded so well and felt like Ohana (family) from the moment we landed in Hawaii,” she said.
For Adina, a commuter student, it was a delight to experience living with other students in a space "where we could study, play board games, have deep conversations, and feed the geckos living on our walls," she shares.
"...We were able to connect and make long lasting relationships with each other that will impact our own lives as well as contributed to our education."
Diving deep into discovery
"I also really enjoyed the opportunity of being fully immersed in Hawaiian culture, with other passionate students," Adina adds, concluding, "From hiking at great altitudes to diving deep while snorkelling, and even dancing outside under the stars, every day in Hawaii was a new adventure!"
Maia affirms, "This year’s group was amazing—even though we were of all ages, in all years, and in different classes, we were able to connect and make long lasting relationships with each other that will impact our own lives as well as contributed to our education."
Integrating faith, learning, and science
Part of the Hawaii travel study was the integration of Christian faith with academic learning. This approach to education encouraged them to see the natural world through a lens of faith, deepening their understanding of both science and Christian faith. By studying the intricate connections within ecosystems, the students gained a deeper appreciation for the Creator’s design and the responsibility to care for His creation.
Indeed, the Hawaii travel study is not just an academic offering, but a journey of discovery, both of the natural world and of personal and communal life. As students continue their studies at TWU, the lessons learned in Hawaii will serve to enrich their training and preparation for their future endeavours.
About TWU Travel Studies
Travel studies allow students to be immersed in a different culture. TWU professors lead the courses, joined by guest speakers who provide a local perspective. For many students, participating in a travel study is one of the most memorable experiences of their entire major, if not a life-changing one. Learn more about Travel Studies at TWU.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university. We are dedicated to equipping students to discover meaningful connections between career, life, and the needs of the world. Drawing upon the riches of the Christian tradition, seeking to unite faith and reason through teaching and scholarship, Trinity Western University is a degree-granting research institution offering liberal arts and sciences as well as professional schools in business, nursing, education, human kinetics, graduate studies, and arts, media, and culture. It has four locations in Canada: Langley, Richmond-Lansdowne, Richmond-Minoru, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn.